crocodile

Not expecting to be loved

But marvellous nonetheless,

A survivor of an ancient line,

And proud of it, uncaring,

Of what those who do not bask

On sand banks should think

Of those who do.

Crocodylus niloticus! Crocodylus niloticus!

Crocodylus niloticus et horrificus!

See the teeth, and eyes

Not intended to convey emotion

As other eyes might do,

But appraising you as breakfast;

Yet we admire you, crocodile,

From that vantage point

That is often best of all:

A safe distance; a safe distance.

Crocodylus niloticus! Crocodylus niloticus!

Crocodylus niloticus et horrificus!